Energy distribution network

ABSTRACT

A hydrogen energy system is provided for one or more buildings. The system includes a hydrogen generator; at least one zone controller for receiving and processing demands from at least one hydrogen user associated with at least one zone of the one or more buildings; and a unit controller for receiving and processing hydrogen demand data received from the at least one zone controller.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an energy network for providing hydrogengenerated at a production site, particularly by one or more waterelectrolysers, for use particularly, as a fuel for vehicles or energystorage. The invention further relates to the use of hydrogen as a fuelfor a fuel cell wherein hydrogen is converted into electrical energy,for combustion as an auxiliary energy source and for the generation ofelectricity, particularly, as part of an electrical distribution system.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

In planning the production capacity of a large chemical plant, forexample, for methanol production or a large electricity production site,correct knowledge of expected demand of the product is critical withregard to the optimization of capital deployment and certainty of areturn on investment in the large facility. Most often millions ofdollars are required to finance the construction. Thus, measuring andpredicting the supply and demand for the end product is highlydesirable. Applying techniques to predict future demand on a real time,short, medium or long term basis, commercially, is extremely important,particularly for maximizing asset utilization, reducing inventory, andminimizing risk.

Currently, the widespread deployment of a network of hydrogen supplysystems for hydrogen-fueled vehicles does not exist. At present, thereis a widespread network of hydrocarbon-fueled vehicles complete with anoptimized fuel supply infrastructure network based on the limits ofknown technology, society's standards and consumer acceptance. Manybelieve to put a widespread, geographic network of hydrogen vehicleswith a network of hydrogen supply encompassing production, storage,transportation and delivery would involve such a large investment and beso challenging, that the task is believed essentially impossible to doin any economic method. Although, there are numerous examples ofhydrogen production from electricity close to where it can be used tofuel a vehicle, such individual sites are not interconnected so as tooptimize performance and asset deployment.

There are a number of shortcomings of the current hydrocarbon-fueledvehicle distribution networks, which shortcomings include a finiteresource of the hydrocarbon fuel per se and an uneven distribution ofthe world's resources. In fact, much of the world's hydrocarbonresources are focused in just a few geographical areas, such that manynations do not have a substantive supply of indigenous fuel. This hasled to global and regional conflict. In addition, there is uncertaintyabout the impact of greenhouse gas emissions on health and climatechange. Furthermore, the very use of hydrocarbon fuels, or theprocessing for use of hydrocarbon fuels, leads to ground level pollutionof smog and ozone as well as regional environmental challenges, such asacid rain. Airborne pollutants, either directly or indirectly formed dueto the combustion or processing of hydrocarbon fuels, lead to reducedcrop output, potentially reduced lifespan and other health issues forall living beings.

A network of fuel supply systems which could provide as good, if notbetter, consumer service and reduce or eliminate fuel resourcedisparity, negative environmental aspects of hydrocarbon fuels and theircombustion or processing which can be introduced in a manner whichmitigates the investment risk, optimizes the capacity factor of allequipment in the system and encourages the use of non-carbon energysources is highly desirable. Hydrogen fuel, produced from energy sourceswhich are lower in carbon content than conventional coal and oil, orhydrogen fuel produced from coal and oil in which the carbon issequestered below the surface of the earth, would be an ideal fuel forthis network.

One aspect of the delivery of a product from a production site to autilization site involves the use of storage. Storage of the product,sometimes a commodity, can efficiently allow for supply and demand tomeet in a manner which optimizes the utilization of production. Twoexamples of this is the supply of hydrogen produced

-   (a) from methanol on board a vehicle and used in a car, where on    board it is reformed into a hydrogen containing gas; and-   (b) by electricity off-board a vehicle and used to fill a compressed    gas storage tank either on the vehicle or on the ground for    subsequent transfer to the vehicle.

In latter case (b), the hydrogen is produced off-board the vehicle andis stored in a compressed gas tank, or similar container. Theaccumulation of hydrogen disconnects the production of electricity forhydrogen production with the real-time demand for hydrogen. This loadshifting effect on electricity production, enabled by storage ofhydrogen, enables better and more predictable utilization ofelectricity—particularly when the hydrogen demand is of some significantpercentage, say 1% to 100% with regard to the electricity beingproduced. This enables decisions to be made on a real time basis as towhere to direct the electricity, for example, to hydrogen production byelectrolysis or other uses. This is only part of the equation as itenables measurement of the supply of electricity, i.e. at times whereincremental production of electricity is available or advantageous andincludes many aspects of operating an electrical generator,transmission, and distribution system which creates improved assetutilization for hydrogen production in addition to meeting immediatereal time electrical demand. The second half of the equation is themeasurement of hydrogen demand in essentially real time. This involvesplanning for the production of hydrogen. When the hydrogen production isfrom electrolysis sources and the hydrogen is transferred to the storagetank on board the vehicle from a storage tank or directly from anelectrolyser base to meet the need demanded by the market place forhydrogen, measurement on a moment by moment basis is possible of thehydrogen demand. The demand can be understood by those familiar in theart by techniques such as temperature/pressure measurements as well aselectrical energy consumption. In addition, measurement of the amount ofhydrogen energy on board the vehicle can enable information to beprovided to the controller for hydrogen supply from electricityproduction and can be equated to stored energy/electrical resources.These measurements complete the equation for supply and demand withdetailed measurement. This enables the following:—

-   (a) real time predictions of the amount of electricity required in    the following time periods: instantaneous and, when combined with    previous data, the rate of growth of demand for electricity for    hydrogen production;-   (b) the deferred use of electricity for hydrogen production and the    supply of electricity to a demand of a higher priority (economic or    technical);-   (c) the safe curtailment of electricity supply for the use of    hydrogen production as sufficient storage exists in the ‘system    network’ of storage tanks; and-   (d) the ability to develop ‘virtual’ storage reservoirs where by    priority/cost/manner of supply of electricity can be determined    based on the status of the storage reservoir.

A system which connects electricity production decision making to storedhydrogen, either on board a vehicle or on the ground to hydrogen marketsenables better decision making with regard to when, where, and how muchelectricity to provide. This information, available on essentially aninstantaneous basis through measurement, is critical to asset deploymentand increase asset utilization and risk mitigation. It can also be usedto better schedule electrical generators. By acting as an “interruptibleload” it can provide operating reserves for the electrical utility tomeet reliability requirements. By collecting this information throughappropriate means a novel and inventive measurement system is createdwhich incorporate the features incorporating one or more of a,b,c and dabove.

It can, thus, be seen that the decisions concerning a chemical plantfor, say, methanol production which then is used for many applicationsincluding on-board or off-board reforming of methanol can not provideinstantaneous and daily information to influence production decisions.

It is thus an object of the present invention to provide an energydistribution network incorporating hydrogen which provides for effectivedeployment and utilization of electrical generation, transmission anddistribution capacity and enhanced economic performance of such assets.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention in its general aspect embodies a network having:

-   (a) primary energy sources transmitted from their production sources    to a hydrogen production site;-   (b) hydrogen production and delivery equipment with or without    by-product sequestration equipment, with or without on-ground    hydrogen storage equipment; and-   (c) collection, storage and supply controllers for the communication    of data.

The term controller comprises central processing means and computingmeans for receiving, treating, forwarding and, optionally, storing data.

The practice of the invention involves use of algorithmic manipulationswithin the controller(s) to utilize and determine information datarelating to, inter alia, the amount of hydrogen required from anelectrolyser(s) by the user(s), the time of delivery of electricalenergy to the electrolyser, duration of period the energy is to bedelivered to the electrolyser(s), the energy level to be sent to theelectrolyser(s), the hydrogen pressure of the user storage, real timeprice of electricity and price forecast, rate of energy level or thetype of modulation of the energy resource(s) to the electrolyser(s); andthe types of electrical energy selected from fossil fuels, hydro,nuclear, solar and wind generated.

The algorithmic manipulations within the controller(s) further determinethe control stages operative in the practice of the invention, such as,inter alia, the operation of the energy resources(s), electrolyticcell(s), compressor valves, user activation units, and the like ashereafter described.

By combining the above elements together, a network that measuresreal-time and computed expected demand for hydrogen fuel and providesproduct hydrogen accordingly is realized. This network may be linkedwith standard projection models to predict future demand requirements bygeographic location. A preferred feature of this hydrogen network isthat it does not rely on the construction of large scale hydrogenproduction facilities of any kind. Instead, preferred hydrogenproduction facilities provided herein are as small astechnically/commercially feasible and include scaled-down apparatus tomeet the needs of a single consumer or a plurality of customers from asingle commercial, retail or industrial site.

Accordingly, in its broadest aspect, the invention provides an energydistribution network for providing hydrogen fuel to a user comprising:hydrogen fuel production means; raw material supply means to saidproduction means; hydrogen fuel user means; and information and supplycontrol means linked to said production means, said raw material supplymeans and user means.

The term ‘hydrogen fuel user means’ in this specification means arecipient for the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production means. Itincludes, for example, but is not limited thereto: hydrogen storagefacilities—which may be above or below ground, in a vehicle and othertransportation units; direct and indirect hydrogen consuming conversionapparatus and equipment, such as fuel cell, electrical and thermalgenerating apparatus; and conduits, compressors and like transmissionapparatus. The demand may also be initiated by the energy supply, whichmay need to “dump” power and thus offer an opportunity to producecheaper hydrogen.

The raw material(s) may include, for example, natural gas, a liquidhydrocarbon or, in the case of an electrolyser, electrical current andwater.

With reference to the practice of the invention relating to natural gas,natural gas from a remote field, is put in a pipeline and transported toa retail outlet or fuel supply location for a hydrogen fuel. At or nearthe retail outlet or fuel supply location, the natural gas issteam/methane reformed with purification to produce hydrogen gas. Thecarbon dioxide by-product is vented or handled in another manner thatleads to its sequestration. The hydrogen produced may be fed, forexample, into a vehicle's compressed hydrogen gas storage tank throughuse of compression. Alternatively, the compressor may divert the flow toa storage tank, nominally on the ground near the steam methanereformer/compressor system. The amount of hydrogen produced in a givenday is determined in many ways familiar in the art and includes naturalgas consumption, hydrogen production, storage pressure, rate of change,and the like. This information is electronically or otherwisetransferred to the operator of the network according to the invention.This information over time constitutes demand information for hydrogenfrom which supply requirements can be foreseen as well as future demandpredicted. As the demand for hydrogen grows, the network operator mayinstall a larger natural gas reformer or add more storage tanks to makebetter use of the existing generator when demand is low. The ability tomeasure and store hydrogen, enables better decisions to be made thanwith the current liquid hydrocarbon (gasoline) infrastructure. Themeasuring ability enables predictions for the raw material (natural gasin this case) to be determined. If the natural gas comes from apipeline, the supply/demand characteristics provides useful informationon how to better manage the pipeline of natural gas as well as plan forpurchases expansion, trunk extensions, maintenance, amortization ofcapital assets, and even discoveries of natural gas. The measuringability of the system also provides key information on predictions forvehicle demand as the growth rate of hydrogen demand for vehicle use maybe a significant leading indicator.

With reference to a network according to the invention based on thecurrent popular fuels, gasoline and diesel, produced from a network ofoil wells, and refineries, this fuel is shipped to a retail outlet orfuel supply location. As needed, the gasoline/diesel is reformed orpartially oxidized, or other chemical steps taken to produce hydrogen.After sufficient purification, the hydrogen is either stored directly onto the vehicle or at off-vehicle storage sites for latter on-vehicletransfer. The amount of hydrogen produced in a given day is determinedby those knowledgeable in the art based on gasoline/diesel consumption,hydrogen production, storage levels or pressures of gas storage, ratesof change, and the like. This information is electronically or otherwisetransferred to the operator of the network according to the invention.This information over time constitutes demand information for hydrogenfrom which supply requirements are foreseen as well as future demandpredicted. As the demand for hydrogen grows, the network operator mayinstall a larger gasoline/diesel reformer or add more storage tanks tomake better use of the existing generator when demand is low. Theability to measure and store hydrogen, enables better decisions to bemade with regard to deployment of assets, such as storage tanks and morehydrogen production equipment, than with the current liquid hydrocarbon(gasoline/diesel) infrastructure. The measuring ability enablespredictions for the raw material to be determined. This is particularlyimportant if the gasoline/diesel is specifically produced for lowpollution or zero emission vehicles in regards to octane, additives,detergents, sulphur content, and the like and there is a unique capitalstructure to the assets used to produce, transport and distribute thisspecial grade of gasoline/diesel. The measuring ability of the systemaccording to the invention also provides key information on predictionsfor vehicle demand as the growth rate of hydrogen demand for vehicle useis a very significant leading indicator.

With reference to a network according to the invention based on a liquidhydrocarbon, such as methanol, methanol produced from a network ofgenerating plants spread locally or globally, is shipped to a retailoutlet or fuel supply station location. As needed, the methanol isreformed, partially oxidized, or other chemical steps taken to producehydrogen. After sufficient purification, the hydrogen may be storeddirectly on to the vehicle or non-vehicle storage for later vehicletransfer. The amount of hydrogen produced in a given day could bedetermined as described hereinabove with reference to natural gas andgasoline.

However, a most preferred network is based on using electricity forwater electrolysis. Electricity travelling in a conductor, produced froma network of generating plants spread locally or globally, is fed to aresidence, home and the like, a commercial or industrial retail outletor other fuel supply location. As needed, the electricity is used in anelectrolysis process that produces hydrogen and oxygen that is of value.After sufficient purification and compression if required, the hydrogenmay be stored directly on to a vehicle or fed to non-vehicle storage.

Electricity can come from many different types of primary energies, eachwith their own characteristics and optimal ways and means of production.Once electricity is produced, it is difficult to store effectively andmust be transmitted through some form of distribution/transmissionsystem. Such systems must respond to many different circumstances ofusers, multiple users more so than from a natural gas pipeline, time ofuse variation, load density, primary electrical input source, status ofprimary electrical input source, weather conditions, unique aspects ofdealing with the nature of electricity, versus a gas or a liquid.

An electrolysis unit, particularly an appropriately designed waterelectrolysis system, has unique advantages in how it can be connected toelectricity supplies and does not have to operate continuously. Anelectrolyser can be made to start, stop or modulate in partial loadsteps more readily than the typical methods to produce hydrogen fromhydrocarbons. This factor is a key element in that electricity may bedynamically “switched” from hydrogen production to other electricalloads based on a priority schedule. This feature enables an electrolyserto obtain lower cost electricity than higher priority electrical loads.Further, since electrolysis is a very scalable technology from 1<kW toover 100,000 kW, the same system, variant only in size, has thepotential to be distributed, as needed. Thus, it can provide controlactivation for meeting changes in electrical demand dynamically.

In the practice of the present invention in a preferred embodiment, thewires that deliver the electrical energy to the electrolyser are used tocommunicate useful information about the state of the electrolysisprocess to related devices. This eliminates the need for an additionalconnection or a “telemetry device” to collect necessary information inan electronic fashion.

Thus, a hydrogen fuel network incorporating electricity and electrolysisoffers useful opportunities with intermittent renewable energy sources,e.g. photovoltaics and wind turbines, even though these may be locatedhundreds of miles away from a network of electrolysis-based hydrogengenerators. The hydrogen generators can be sequenced to produce hydrogenat a rate proportional to the availability of renewable energy sources.In addition, by measuring price signals, the electrolysers can bereduced or shut down if the market price for electricity from aparticular generation source is beyond a tolerance level for fuelsupply. The electrolysis system can also be readily shut down in thecase of emergency within the electrical system. In view of the speed ofdata communications, control actions which can be taken in less than onesecond can be uses to dynamically control the grid as well as replacespinning reserves to meet reliability requirements.

Only a natural gas distribution system is close to an electricity systemin the concept of a continuous trickle supply of the energy source tothe hydrogen generator. When gasoline or methanol arrives at a hydrogenproduction and fuel supply site, it is generally by large shipment andthe gasoline or methanol would be stored in a tank of some 50,000gallons size. The trickle charge is a critical feature of the hydrogenfuel network and is clearly preferred. The distributed storage ofhydrogen—either on the vehicle which itself may be trickle charged orfor an on ground storage tank which can be trickle charged, accumulatesufficient hydrogen and then deliver that hydrogen to a car at a powerrate measured in GW. The ability to take a kW trickle charge and convertit to a GW rapid fuel power delivery system through effective storage isa key element in building an effective fuel supply service as a productof the network.

The ability to measure hydrogen supply and demand as well as estimatethe total hydrogen stored in the network, including ground storage orstorage on board vehicles, provides a most useful benefit of the networkof the invention. The integrated whole of the network is analogous to agiant fuel gauge and, thus, predictions of the amount of electricityrequired to fuel the system and the rate of fueling required can bemade. This provides electricity power generators/marketers informationfrom which they can help better predict supply and demand real time.Uniquely, the location as to where the fuel is most needed can also bedetermined on a near continuous basis.

In addition, distributed hydrogen storage, a consequence of the networkaccording to the invention, is similar to distributed electricitystorage or, if integrated together, a large hydroelectric storagereservoir. The hydrogen storage reservoir, may optionally, be convertedback to electricity for the grid using an appropriate conversion devicesuch as a fuel cell. Most objectives of energy management obtained withhydroelectric water reservoirs may be practiced with hydrogenreservoirs. Given the distributed network of hydrogen reservoirs, thepriority of practicing a particular energy management technique can beperformed. This prioritization capability is unique to the network ofthe invention.

As a network incorporating distributed electrolysis-based hydrogensupply systems with distributed reservoirs is developed, the planningfor the addition of new electricity generation systems can be made basedon information from the network. The uniqueness of knowing the supply,demand and energy storage aspects of the network provides informationabout the optimal specification of new electrical generating systems.The creation of large scale energy storage capability encouragesselection of electrical generators previously challenged by the lack ofenergy storage. Such generators including wind turbines and photovoltaicpanels may be encouraged. This should optimize the ability to implementthese types of generators which may be mandated by governments asnecessary to combat perceived environmental challenges.

The hydrogen network in the further preferred embodiments enables moneypayments to be made for services provided in real time as for preferredforms of energy sources based on environmental impact.

Thus, the network of energy sources of use in the practice of theinvention produces hydrogen through various techniques, such as steammethane reforming, partial oxidation or water electrolysis, at, or verynear, the intended user site so that no further processing beyondappropriate purification and pressurization for the specific storagetank/energy application. In the case where the hydrogen energy comesdirectly or indirectly from a carbon source which is deemed by societyto be too high in carbon content (CO₂ production) or where otherpollutants may exist, these are captured at source and sequestered tothe extent society deems necessary. In addition, a method to measure, orreasonably estimate the flow of hydrogen into storage (compressed gas,liquid H₂, hydrides, etc.) in or on the ground or an appropriate storagesystem on board a vehicle is helpful to obtain information which canlead to decisions as to when, where and how to produce fuel as well aswhen to deploy more assets in the process of producing fuel or on boarda vehicle measurements.

Thus, the invention in one most preferred embodiment provides a hydrogenfuel vehicle supply infrastructure which is based on a connected networkof hydrogen fuel electrolysers. The electrolysers and control associatedmeans on the network communicate current electrical demand and receivefrom the electrical system operator/scheduler the amount of hydrogenfuel needed to be produced and related data such as the time period forrefueling. For example, based on the pressure of the storage volume andthe rate at which the pressure rises, the storage volume needed to befilled can be calculated. The time period for fueling may also becommunicated to the fuel scheduler, for example, by the setting of atimer on the electrolyser appliance and/or the mode of operation, e.g.to be a quick or slow fuel fill. The electrical system operator/fueldelivery scheduler may preferably aggregate the electrical loads on thenetwork and optimize the operation of the electrical system bycontrolling the individual operation of fuel appliance, using‘scheduled’ hydrogen production as a form of virtual storage to manageand even control the electrical system; and employ power load levelingto improve transmission and generating utilization, and dynamic controlfor controlling line frequency.

It is, therefore, a most preferred object of the present invention toprovide a real time hydrogen based network of multiple hydrogen fueltransfer sites based on either primary energy sources which may or maynot be connected in real time.

There is preferably a plurality of such electrolysers on the energynetwork according to the invention and/or a plurality of users perelectrolysers on the system.

In a preferred aspect, the network of the invention comprises one ormore hydrogen replenishment systems for providing hydrogen to a user,said systems comprising

-   -   (i) an electrolytic cell for providing source hydrogen;    -   (ii) a compression means for providing outlet hydrogen at an        outlet pressure;    -   (iii) means for feeding said source hydrogen to said compressor        means;    -   (iv) means for feeding said outlet hydrogen to said user;    -   (v) control means for activating said cell to provide said        hydrogen source when said outlet pressure fall to a selected        minimum value; and    -   (vi) user activation means for operably activating said control        means.

The aforesaid replenishment system may comprise wherein saidelectrolytic cell comprises said compression means whereby said outlethydrogen comprises source hydrogen and said step (iii) is constituted bysaid cell and, optionally, wherein a hydrogen fuel appliance apparatuscomprising the system as aforesaid wherein said means (iv) comprisesvehicle attachment means attachable to a vehicle to provide said outlethydrogen as fuel to said vehicle.

The invention in a further broad aspect provides a network ashereinbefore defined further comprising energy generation means linkedto the user means to provide energy from the stored hydrogen to theuser.

The energy generation means is preferably one for generating electricityfrom the stored hydrogen for use in relatively small local areaelectricity distribution networks, e.g. residences, apartment complexes,commercial and industrial buildings or sites, or for feeding theauxiliary generated electrical power back into a wide area electricitydistribution network, like national, state or provincial grids, ondemand, when conventional electricity power supply is provided at peakperiods. The energy generation means using hydrogen as a source of fuelcan utilize direct energy conversion devices such as fuel cells toconvert hydrogen directly to electricity, and can utilize indirectenergy conversion devices such as generators/steam turbine to produceelectricity, and can utilize the hydrogen directly as a combustible fuelas in residential heating/cooking etc.

Accordingly, in a further aspect, the invention provides an energydistribution network for providing hydrogen fuel to a user comprising

-   -   (a) energy resource means;    -   (b) hydrogen production means to receive said energy from said        energy resource means;    -   (c) hydrogen fuel user means to receive hydrogen from said        hydrogen production means; and    -   (d) data collection, storage, control and supply means linked to        said energy resource means, said hydrogen production means and        said hydrogen fuel user means to determine, control and supply        hydrogen from said hydrogen production means;        wherein said hydrogen fuel user means comprises a plurality of        geographic zones located within or associated with at least one        building structure selected from the group consisting of an        office, plant, factory, warehouse, shopping mall, apartment, and        linked, semi-linked or detached residential dwelling wherein at        least one of said geographic zones has zone data control and        supply means linked to said data collection, storage, control        and supply means as hereinbefore defined to said geographic        zones.

The invention further provides a network as hereinbefore defined whereineach of at least two of said geographic zones has zone data control andsupply means, and a building data control and supply means linked to (i)said data collection, storage, control and supply means, and (ii) eachof at least two of said geographic zone data control and supply means inan interconnected network, to determine, control and supply hydrogenfrom said hydrogen production means to said geographic zones.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the invention may be better understood, preferredembodiments will now be described by way of example, only, wherein

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment according to theinvention;

FIGS. 1A, 1B and 1C represent block diagrams of the data flowinterrelationships between the users and controller network of use inalternative embodiments according to the invention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an alternative embodiment according to theinvention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the major features of a hydrogen fuelrefurbishment system of use in the practice of a preferred embodiment ofthe invention;

FIG. 4 is a logic block diagram of a control and supply data controllerof one embodiment according to the invention;

FIG. 5 is a logic block diagram of the control program of one embodimentof the system according to the invention;

FIG. 6 is a logic block diagram of a cell block control loop of thecontrol program of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the inventionrepresenting interrelationships between embodiment of FIG. 1 and afurther defined user network; and wherein the same numerals denote likeparts.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT ACCORDING TO THEINVENTION

FIG. 1 represents an embodiment providing a broad aspect of theinvention having a hydrogen production source 10, supplied by energysource 12 which may be an electricity generating power plant, or anatural gas, gasoline or methanol reforming plant or combinationsthereof. A control unit 14 and users 16 are suitably linked by hardwareinput and output distribution conduits 18, 20, respectively, andelectrical data transmission lines 22.

Users 16 define demands for hydrogen transmitted by means of, forexample (i) use of a credit card, (ii) use of a smart card, (iii) use ofa voice activation system, (iv) manual activation via front panelcontrol, (v) use of a electronic, electric, or wireless infrared datatransmission system to register a hydrogen demand on the network. Uponreceipt of the demand, controller 14 determines the natures of thedemand with respect to the quantity of hydrogen requested, the time todeliver the hydrogen, the conditions under which to deliver the hydrogenwith respect to the temperature, pressure, purity and the like and therate of delivery of hydrogen requested. Such initial definition of thehydrogen demand may be performed by a single controller 14 asillustrated in this embodiment or by a plurality of controllers 14interconnected in a network, having a configuration in the form of, forexample, a backbone (FIG. 1A), hub/star (FIG. 1B), or ring (FIG. 1C) insuch a way as to permit intercommunication between all the users.

Upon receiving a demand, controller 14 determines the availability ofenergy resources 12, to which it is interconnected, with respect to theamount of energy available, the nature of the power available, the timeavailability of the energy, the type of energy source available, theunit prices per increment of energy and compares this to the energyrequired to generate the hydrogen demanded by users 16.

Upon receipt of the demand, controller 14 further determines the statusof all hydrogen producing source(s) 10 on the network. The initialchecks include the current status of the hydrogen source as a % use ofrated capacity, rated capacity to produce hydrogen of a known quantity,and the amount of energy consumption. The initial checks further includemonitoring of the process parameters for starting the hydrogen producingsource and process valve and electrical switch status.

After controller 14 determines the initial status of hydrogen producingsource 10, the hydrogen demand by users 16, and the nature andavailability of the energy sources 12 on the network, controller 14 theninitiates the starting sequence for hydrogen producing source(s) 10 tomeet the demands of users 16 subject to the availability of energyresource(s) 12 at the lowest possible cost. Controller 14 secures energyfrom source(s) 12 at a preferred cost to user 16 to permit hydrogen toflow through conduits 20. Energy is consumed by unit 10 in thegeneration of hydrogen which are supplied to users 16 along conduits 20.

Any incorrect noted status in any of the operational parameters notedabove or in the quality/purity of the product gases will result incontroller 14 to alter or interrupt the operation of hydrogen source 10until an appropriate status has been reached. Controller 14 also canmodulate on or off a plurality of hydrogen producing sources on thenetwork to meet the demands of users 16 so as to successfully completethe hydrogen demand of users 16 to provide the minimum quantity ofhydrogen at the minimum rate of delivery over the minimum amount of timeas specified at the minimum purity at the minimum cost to the user.

Upon receiving notification from users 16 that their requirements havebeen successfully met, controller 14 instructs hydrogen producing source10 to cease operation and informs energy source(s) 12 of the revisedchange in electrical demand.

With reference also to FIG. 1A, which illustrates the data flowrelationship between a plurality of users 16 along conduit 22 linkinghydrogen production means 10 users 16 and to energy source 12 under thedirection of controller 14. FIG. 1A defines a “backbone” for thecommunication of data from controller 14 to each of said users 16.

Alternate embodiments of the interrelation between users 16 andcontroller 14 are shown as a star/hub in FIG. 1B and in FIG. 1C a ring,and combinations, thereof. Backbones, star/hubs, and rings are alsopossible to complete a networking environment for the flow andinterchange of data as noted in FIG. 1 above.

With reference now to FIG. 2, in an analogous manner as herein describedwith reference to the embodiment of FIG. 1, users 16 define a demand forhydrogen, provided by a plurality of individual electrolysers 10 underthe control of controller 14, from electrical energy source 22.

FIG. 2 thus shows generally as 200, an energy network according to theinvention having a plurality of hydrogen fuel generating electrolysers10 connected to corresponding user facilities, above or below ground orvehicle storage 16. Electrical energy is provided to cells 10 by lead 18on demand, individually or collectively from power grid source 22 underthe control of controller 14, and supplies hydrogen through conduits 20to users 16. Control and supply controller 14 receives information fromcells 10 and user facilities 16, as the fuel requirement and loadingsituation requires. Controller 14 further effects activation of therequired electrical feed to cell 10 for hydrogen generation as required.The time of commencement, duration and electric power levels to a cellare also controlled by central controller 14. Information as to volumeof hydrogen fuel container, hydrogen pressure therein and rate ofpressure change on refurbishment are measured in real-time. Controller14 further comprises data storage means from which information may betaken and read or added. Iteration and algorithmic treatment of realtime and stored data can be made and appropriate process control can berealized by acting on such data in real time.

With reference to FIG. 2 in more detail, user 16 defines a demand forhydrogen and may transmit the demand by (i) use of a credit card, (ii)use of a smart card, (iii) use of a voice activation system, (iv) manualactivation via front panel control, (v) use of an electronic, electric,or wireless infrared data transmission system to register a hydrogendemand on the network.

Upon receipt of the demand, network controller 14 determines the natureof the demand with respect to the quantity of hydrogen requested, thetime to deliver the hydrogen, the conditions under which to deliver thehydrogen with respect to temperature, pressure, purity and the like, andthe rate of delivery of hydrogen requested. Such initial definition ofthe hydrogen demand may be performed by a single controller 14 asillustrated in this embodiment or by a plurality of controllers 14interconnected, for example, in a “hub/star”, “backbone” or “ring”configuration in such a way as to permit intercommunication between allcontrollers 14.

Upon receipt of the demand, controller 14 determines the availability ofelectrical energy resources 22 to which it is interconnected withrespect to the amount of energy available, the nature of the poweravailable, in regard to current and voltage, the time availability ofthe energy, the type of electrical energy source available, the unitprice per increment of electrical energy and compares this to the powerrequired to generate the hydrogen demanded by users 16.

Controller 14 further determines the status of all hydrogen producingelectrolyser source(s) 10 on the network. The initial checks include thecurrent status of the hydrogen source, % use of rated capacity, ratedcapacity to produce hydrogen of a known quantity, for a known amount ofelectrical consumption. The initial checks further include monitoring ofthe process parameters for starting electrolyser(s) 10, and inparticular, the temperature, pressure, anolyte and catholyte liquidlevels, electrical bus continuity, KOH concentration and process valveand electrical switch status.

After controller 14 determines the initial status of electrolyser(s) 10,the hydrogen demand by users 16 and the nature and availability of theelectrical sources on the network, controller 14 then initiates thestarting sequence for electrolyser(s) 10 to meet the demands of users 16subject to the availability of electrical energy resource(s) 22 at thelowest possible cost.

Controller 14 secures a quantity of electrical energy from theelectrical source(s) 22 at the most preferred cost to user 16 to permithydrogen to flow down conduits 20. Power is then applied to hydrogenproducing electrolyser appliances 10 and the aforesaid processparameters monitored and controlled in such a fashion as to permit safeoperation of hydrogen producing electrolyser appliances 10 for thegeneration of hydrogen supplied to users 16 along conduits 20. Oxygenmay be, optionally, provided to users 20 or other users (not shown) byconduits (not shown).

Any incorrect noted status in any of the operational parameters notedabove or in the quantity/purity of the product gases causes controller14 to alter or interrupt the operation of electrolyser 10 until anappropriate status has been reached. Controller 14 also can modulate oneor a plurality of electrolysers on the network to meet the demands ofusers 16 so as to successfully complete the hydrogen demand by providingthe minimum quantity of hydrogen at the minimum rate of delivery overthe minimum amount of time as specified at the minimum purity at theminimum cost to user 16.

Upon receiving notification from users 16 that their requirements havebeen successfully met, controller 14 instructs electrolyser(s) 10 tocease operation and informs electrical energy source(s) 22 of therevised change in electrical demand.

With reference to FIG. 3, this shows a system according to the inventionshown generally as 300 having an electrolyser cell 10 which producessource hydrogen at a desired pressure P₁ fed through conduit 24 tocompressor 26. Compressor 24 feeds compressed outlet hydrogen throughconduit 28 to user 16 at pressure P₂, exemplified as a vehicle attachedby a fitting 30. Cell 10, compressor 26 and user 16 are linked to acontroller 14.

With reference also now to FIG. 4, a pair of hydrogen fueller andgenerator, with or without storage, slave controllers (HFGS) 40,receives data input from users 16. This input may include at least oneof user fuel needs, user fuel available, user storage facilitiesavailable, level of fuel available in any storage facility, availableinput power, type of input power, status and percent utilization ofinput power source. The HFGS controllers 40 verify the integrity of thedata and transmit this data along conduits 42 via modems 44 and, ifnecessary, with the aid of repeater 46 to a master network controller48. Data may also be transmitted in other embodiments, for example, viawireless transmission, via radio, infrared, satellite or optical meansfrom HFGS slave controller 40 to master network controller 48 and ontocontrol network hub 50.

In real time, or at some later time as desired by users 16, the statusof the energy source 52 as to the type of power available, amount ofpower available, instantaneous and trend of power usage, instantaneousdemand and predicted demand, nature and type of peak load demands andreserve capacity and percentage utilization of energy source assets canbe transmitted in a similar fashion as described herein above along dataconduit 54 to control network hub 50.

In real time, or at some later time as desired by users 16, controlnetwork hub SQ analyses the status and needs of the users via masternetwork controller 48 and the status of energy sources 52 and providesan optimized algorithm to meet the needs of the users, while providingplant load shifting, plant operation scheduling, plantoutage/maintenance, all at a documented minimal acceptable cost to theuser. Energy sources 52 can access the status of the network andtransmit data along data conduit 56 by means as described above to anadministrative center 58 where data analysis of asset utilization,costing, and the like, can be performed and dynamically linked back tocontrol network hub 50, which manages both users 16 demand and sources52 supply in an optimized fashion. Security barrier 60 may be present atvarious locations in the network to ensure confidentiality andprivileged data exchange flow to respective users 16, sources 52 andadministrative centers 58 so as to maintain network security.

With reference to FIG. 5 this shows the logic control steps effective inthe operation of the system as a whole, and in FIG. 6 the specific cellcontrol loop, sub-unit wherein a logical block diagram of the controlprogram of one embodiment of the system according to the invention;wherein

-   P_(MS)—Compressor start pressure;-   P_(L)—Compressor stop pressure;-   P_(LL)—Inlet low pressure;-   P_(MO)—Tank full pressure;-   ΔP—Pressure switch dead band;-   P_(MM)—Maximum allowable cell pressure; and-   L_(L)—Minimum allowable cell liquid level.

In more detail, FIG. 5 shows the logic flow diagram of the controlprogram for the operation. Upon plant start-up, cell 10 generateshydrogen gas at some output pressure, P_(HO). The magnitude of suchpressure, P_(HO), is used to modulate the operation of a startcompressor. If P_(HO) is less than some minimum pressure related to theliquid level in 10, P_(LL), a low pressure alarm is generated and aplant shutdown sequence is followed. If the output pressure, P_(HO), isgreater than P_(LL), then a further comparison is made. If the outputpressure, P_(HO), is greater than P_(MS), the minimum input pressure tothe start compressor, the latter begins a start sequence. If the outputpressure is less than some minimum value, P_(L), then start compressorremains at idle (stopped) until such time as the magnitude of P_(HO)exceeds P_(MS) to begin compressor operation.

Upon starting the compressor, the hydrogen gas is compressed in one ormore stages to reach an output pressure, P_(C), from the exit of thecompressor. If the output pressure, P_(C), exceeds a safety threshold,P_(MO), then operation of the compressor is terminated. If the output,P_(C), is less than some desired minimum, P_(MO)−ΔP, the compressor runsto supply and discharge hydrogen.

FIG. 6 comprises a block diagram of the hydrogen fuel replenishmentapparatus shown generally as 600 used to supply hydrogen and/or oxygengas at a minimum desired pressure. Apparatus 600 includes a rectifier210 to convert an a.c. signal input to a desired d.c. signal output, abus bar 212, electrolytic cell(s) 10, means of measuring oxygen 214 andhydrogen 216 pressure in conduits 218 and 220, respectively, valve meansfor controlling the flow of oxygen 222 and hydrogen 224, respectively,and a process/instrument controller 226 to ensure desired operation ofelectrolytic cell(s) 10 with suitable plant shutdown alarms 228.

FIG. 6 also comprises a process flow diagram for the cell block of FIG.5. Upon plant start-up, rectifier 210 establishes a safe condition byexamining the status of plant alarm 228 with respect to pressure andlevel controls. If the alarm indicates a safe status, current andvoltage (power) are transmitted along cell bus bar 212 from rectifier210 to electrolytic cell 10. With the application of a suitablecurrent/voltage source, electrolysis takes place within electrolyticcell(s) 10 with the resultant decomposition of water into the productsof hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. The oxygen gas is transported alongconduit 218 in which oxygen pressure means 214 monitors oxygen pressure,P_(O), at any time, and to control oxygen pressure via modulation ofback pressure valve 222. Similarly, the hydrogen gas is transportedalong conduit 220 in which means 216 monitors hydrogen pressure, P_(H),at any time, and to control hydrogen pressure via control valve 224. Inthe operation of electrolytic cell(s) 10, the anolyte level of the cellon the oxygen side, L_(O), and the catholyte level on the hydrogen side,L_(H), are detected via P/I controller 226 to provide a control signalto valve 224 to facilitate the supply of hydrogen and/or oxygen gas atsome desired pressure.

With reference now to FIG. 7 users 716 are defined as being at least onegeographic zone 718 within a building whose tenancy may be residential,as in an apartment, semi-attached, detached dwelling, and the like, orindustrial/commercial, as in an office, plant, mall, factory, warehouse,and the like, and which defines a demand for hydrogen. Such user 716 maytransmit its demand by (i) use of a credit card, (ii) use of a smartcard, or (iii) use of an electronic, electric, or wireless datatransmission, to register a hydrogen demand to a zone controller 720exemplifying zone data control and supply means.

Upon receipt of the demand, zone controller 720 determines the nature ofthe demand with respect to the quantity of hydrogen requested, the timeto deliver the hydrogen, the conditions under which to deliver thehydrogen with respect to temperature, pressure, purity and the like, theend utilization purpose of the hydrogen, and the rate of delivery of thehydrogen requested. Such initial definition of this hydrogen demand maybe performed by a single or a plurality of zone controller(s) 720interconnected in a network configured as a “hub”, “star”, “ring” or“backbone” as exemplified in FIGS. 1A-1C, in such a way as to permitintercommunication between all controllers 720 to a unit controller 721exemplifying a building data and control supply means via bus 722.

Upon receipt of the demand by unit controller 721 from the network ofzone controllers 720, unit controller 721 determines the availability ofall energy resources 12 available to units 716 by polling the statusfrom a network controller 14 to which it is interconnected with respectto the amount of energy available, the nature of the power available,the time availability of the energy, the type of energy sourceavailable, the unit price per increment of energy and compares this tothe energy required to generate the energy, the type of energy sourceavailable, the unit price per increment of energy and compares this tothe energy required to generate the hydrogen demanded by all units 716and subsequent zones 718.

Upon receipt of the demand, network controller 14 further determines thestatus of all hydrogen producing sources 10 on the network. Initialchecks include the current status of the hydrogen source, percentage useof rated capacity, rated capacity to produce hydrogen of a knownquantity for a know amount of energy consumption and monitoring of theprocess parameters for starting the hydrogen production source(s),process valves and electrical switch status network controller 14 theninitiates the starting sequence for hydrogen producing source(s) 10 tomeet the demands of users 716 and subsequent zones 718 subject to theavailability of energy resource(s) 12 at the lowest possible cost.

Network controller 14 secures a quantity of energy from energy source(s)12 at the most preferred cost to user 718 and updates unit controller721 and zone controller 720 to permit hydrogen to flow through conduits724. Energy is then consumed from energy source 12 to produce hydrogenvia hydrogen production source(s) 10 for the generation of hydrogen andoxygen gases which are supplied to the users through units 716 and 718zones.

Hydrogen flowing in conduit 724 to unit 716 is monitored by unitcontroller 721 which further controls the distribution of hydrogenwithin unit 716. Hydrogen may flow so as to enter storage unit 726 forlater use by a zone 718, and may flow along conduit 728 to a directconversion device 730 for conversion of hydrogen into electricity via afuel cell and the like (not shown) for a further central distributionwithin unit 716. It may further be converted into heat and/orelectricity by an indirect conversion device 732, such as a boiler,furnace, steam generator, turbine and the like for further centraldistribution within unit 716 and may be further passed along conduit 728directly to a zone 718.

Hydrogen flowing in conduit 728 to zone 718 is further monitored by unitcontroller 721, zone controller 720 and zone controller 734 along databus 736 which further controls the distribution of hydrogen within zone718. Hydrogen within the zone may flow so as to enter a direct 738 orindirect 740 conversion device within zone 718 for conversion intoelectricity or heat via a furnace, stove and the like (not shown).

In a further embodiment, network controller 722 selects a specific typeof energy source 12 to buy electricity which can be transmitted alongconduits 742, 724, 726 so as to arrive directly at zone 718 whereconversion into hydrogen occurs within the zone by means of anelectrolyser 744 for generation of hydrogen within the geographicdomains of zone 718 for use by direct 738 or indirect 740 conversiondevices as noted above, all under the direction of zone controller 720.

Any incorrect noted status in any of the operational parameters notedabove or in the quality/purity of the product gases, will result innetwork controller 14, unit controller 721 and zone controller 720 toalter or intercept the operation of hydrogen source(s) 10 and 744, alongwith hydrogen conversion devices 730, 732, 738, 740 until an appropriatestatus has been reached. Controllers 14, 721 and 734 also can act tomodulate one or a plurality of hydrogen producing sources on the networkto meet the demands of users 716, 718 so as to successfully complete thehydrogen demand of users 716, 718 to provide the minimum quantity ofhydrogen at the minimum rate of delivery over the minimum amount of timeas specified at the minimum purity at the minimum cost to users 716,718, and optionally, schedules hydrogen demand.

Upon receiving notification from users 716, 718 that their requirementshave been successfully met, controllers 14, 721 and 720 instructhydrogen producing sources 10, 744 to cease operation and informs energysources 12 of the revised change in energy demand and, optionally,schedules hydrogen demand.

Line 746 denotes the direct energy source for self-contained individualzone electrolyser.

Although this disclosure has described and illustrated certain preferredembodiments of the invention, it is to be understood that the inventionis not restricted to those particular embodiments. Rather, the inventionincludes all embodiments which are functional or mechanical equivalenceof the specific embodiments and features that have been described andillustrated.

1-24. (canceled)
 25. A hydrogen energy system for one or more buildings,said system comprising: (a) a hydrogen generator; (b) at least one zonecontroller for receiving and transmitting demands for hydrogenassociated with at least one zone of the one or more buildings; (c) aunit controller for processing said demands for hydrogen received fromsaid at least one zone controller and controlling said hydrogengenerator in accordance therewith.
 26. A system as claimed in claim 25wherein said demands include demands for electricity generated from saidhydrogen.
 27. A system as claimed in claim 25 wherein said demandsinclude demands for heat generated from said hydrogen.
 28. A system asclaimed in claim 25 wherein said unit controller further controls adevice for converting hydrogen into electrical energy.
 29. A system asclaimed in claim 25 wherein said unit controller further controls adevice for converting hydrogen into thermal energy.
 30. A system asclaimed in claim 28 wherein said hydrogen conversion device is ahydrogen powered internal combustion engine.
 31. A system as claimed inclaim 28 wherein said hydrogen conversion device is a fuel cell.
 32. Asystem as claimed in claim 29 wherein said hydrogen conversion device isa boiler.
 33. A system as claimed in claim 29 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is a furnace.
 34. A system as claimed in claim 25wherein said system provides energy to a plurality of buildings.
 35. Asystem as claimed in claim 34 wherein each of said buildings includesone of said unit controllers and at least one of said zone controllers.36. A system as claimed in claim 35 further comprising a buildingnetwork controller for receiving and processing hydrogen demand datafrom said unit controllers for each of said buildings.
 37. A system asclaimed in claim 36 wherein said building network controller controlsthe generation of hydrogen by said hydrogen generator and the supply ofhydrogen to at least one hydrogen conversion device for a plurality ofsaid buildings.
 38. A system as claimed in claim 36 wherein saidbuilding network controller is in communication with an energy networkcontroller that controls a network of energy sources each having energysource data associated therewith.
 39. A system as claimed in claim 36wherein said building network controller receives and processes energysource data in order to control the generation, storage and conversionof hydrogen to meet the demands for a plurality of said buildings.
 40. Asystem as claimed in claim 25 wherein said unit controller also receivesand processes energy source data in order to control the generation,storage and conversion of hydrogen to meet the demands of said one ofmore buildings.
 41. A system as claimed in claim 28 wherein saidhydrogen conversion device is adapted to deliver electrical energy to anelectricity grid.
 42. A system as claimed in claim 25 further comprisinga hydrogen dispenser for dispensing hydrogen to at least one hydrogenpowered vehicle.
 43. A system as claimed in claim 25 wherein said atleast one zone controller includes a user activation interface forreceiving data concerning a demand for hydrogen.
 44. A system as claimedin claim 42 wherein said hydrogen dispenser includes a user activationinterface for receiving user input concerning a demand for hydrogen. 45.A system as claimed in claim 42 wherein said hydrogen dispenser isdisposed remotely from said one or more buildings.
 46. A system asclaimed in claim 42 wherein said hydrogen dispenser is disposedproximate to said one or more buildings.
 47. A system as claimed inclaim 42 wherein said hydrogen dispenser is disposed within said one ormore buildings.
 48. A system as claimed in claim 25 wherein a pluralityof said zone controllers are interconnected in a network, said networkbeing operably connected to said unit controller.
 49. A system asclaimed in claim 25 wherein said demands are transmitted wirelessly fromsaid at least one zone controller.
 50. A system as claimed in claim 25wherein said hydrogen generator is an electrolyser.
 51. A hydrogenenergy system for one or more buildings, said system comprising: (a) ahydrogen generator; (b) a hydrogen storage apparatus for storinghydrogen received from said hydrogen generator; (c) a hydrogenconversion apparatus for converting hydrogen received from said hydrogenstorage apparatus into a desired form of energy; and (d) a controller incommunication with a plurality of zones associated with said one or morebuildings for controlling the generation, storage and conversion ofhydrogen by said hydrogen generator, hydrogen storage apparatus andhydrogen conversion apparatus in accordance with demands received fromone or more of said plurality of zones.
 52. A system as claimed in claim51 wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen intoelectricity.
 53. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is a hydrogen powered internal combustion engine. 54.A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen conversion deviceis a fuel cell.
 55. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein saidhydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen into thermal energy. 56.A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen conversion deviceis a boiler.
 57. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is a furnace.
 58. A system as claimed in claim 51further comprising a compressor for compressing hydrogen generated bysaid hydrogen generator to a minimum desired pressure prior to beingreceived by said hydrogen storage apparatus.
 59. A system as claimed inclaim 51 wherein said hydrogen generator generates hydrogen at a minimumdesired pressure.
 60. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein saidsystem provides energy to a plurality of buildings.
 61. A system asclaimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen generator generates hydrogenfor supplying energy to a plurality of said buildings.
 62. A system asclaimed in claim 51 wherein said controller is also in communicationwith an energy network controller that controls a network of energysources each having energy source data associated therewith.
 63. Asystem as claimed in claim 51 wherein said controller also receives andprocesses data pertaining to the source of energy for said hydrogengenerator in order to control the generation, storage and conversion ofhydrogen to meet the demands for a plurality of said buildings.
 64. Asystem as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen conversion device isadapted to generate and deliver electrical energy to an electricitygrid.
 65. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogengenerator is disposed remotely from said one or more buildings.
 66. Asystem as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen generator isdisposed proximate to said one or more buildings.
 67. A system asclaimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen generator is disposed withinsaid one or more buildings.
 68. A system as claimed in claim 51 whereinsaid hydrogen storage apparatus comprises at least one hydride storagechamber.
 69. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogenstorage apparatus comprises at least one container for storingpressurized hydrogen.
 70. A system as claimed in claim 51 furthercomprising a hydrogen dispenser for dispensing hydrogen to at least onehydrogen powered vehicle.
 71. A system as claimed in claim 70 whereinsaid hydrogen dispenser is disposed remotely from said one or morebuildings.
 72. A system as claimed in claim 70 wherein said hydrogendispenser is disposed proximate to said one or more buildings.
 73. Asystem as claimed in claim 70 wherein said hydrogen dispenser isdisposed within said one or more buildings.
 74. A system as claimed inclaim 51 wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed remotelyfrom one or more of said buildings.
 75. A system as claimed in claim 51wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed proximate to oneor more of said buildings.
 76. A system as claimed in claim 51 whereinsaid hydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed within one or more ofsaid buildings.
 77. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein saidhydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen into electrical energywhich is transmitted to one or more of said zones by an electricalenergy transmission line.
 78. A system as claimed in claim 51 whereinsaid hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen into thermal energywhich is transmitted to one or more of said zones by a thermal energytransmission conduit.
 79. A system as claimed in claim 51 wherein saiddemands are transmitted wirelessly from said zones.
 80. A system asclaimed in claim 51 wherein said hydrogen generator is an electrolyser.81. A hydrogen energy system for one or more buildings, said systemcomprising: (a) a hydrogen generator; (b) a hydrogen storage apparatusfor storing hydrogen received from said hydrogen generator; (c) ahydrogen conversion apparatus for converting hydrogen received from saidhydrogen storage apparatus into a desired form of energy; (d) a hydrogendispenser for dispensing hydrogen from said hydrogen storage apparatusto one or more hydrogen powered vehicles; and (e) a controller incommunication with at least one of said hydrogen generator, hydrogenstorage apparatus, hydrogen conversion apparatus and hydrogen dispenserto control the generation and distribution of hydrogen and energy forone or more of said buildings and vehicles.
 82. A system as claimed inclaim 81 wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogeninto electricity.
 83. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen conversion device is a hydrogen powered internal combustionengine.
 84. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is a fuel cell.
 85. A system as claimed in claim 81wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen intothermal energy.
 86. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen conversion device is a boiler.
 87. A system as claimed in claim81 wherein said hydrogen conversion device is a furnace.
 88. A system asclaimed in claim 81 further comprising a compressor for compressinghydrogen generated by said hydrogen generator to a minimum desiredpressure prior to being received by said hydrogen storage apparatus. 89.A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogen generatorgenerates hydrogen at a minimum desired pressure.
 90. A system asclaimed in claim 81 wherein said system provides energy to a pluralityof buildings.
 91. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogengenerator generates hydrogen for supplying energy to a plurality of saidbuildings.
 92. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said controlleris in communication with an energy network controller that controls anetwork of energy sources each having energy source data associatedtherewith.
 93. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said controlleralso receives and processes data pertaining to the source of energy forsaid hydrogen generator in order to control the generation, storage andconversion of hydrogen to meet the demands for a plurality of saidbuildings.
 94. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is adapted to generate and deliver electrical energyto an electricity grid.
 95. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen generator is disposed remotely from said one or more buildings.96. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogen generator isdisposed proximate to said one or more buildings.
 97. A system asclaimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogen generator is disposed withinsaid one or more buildings.
 98. A system as claimed in claim 81 whereinsaid hydrogen storage apparatus comprises at least one hydride storagechamber.
 99. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogenstorage apparatus comprises at least one container for storingpressurized hydrogen.
 100. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed remotely from one or more ofsaid buildings.
 101. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed proximate to one or more ofsaid buildings.
 102. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein saidhydrogen conversion apparatus is disposed within one or more of saidbuildings.
 103. A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogendispenser is disposed remotely from one or more of said buildings. 104.A system as claimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogen dispenser isdisposed proximate to one or more of said buildings.
 105. A system asclaimed in claim 81 wherein said hydrogen dispenser is disposed withinone or more of said buildings.
 106. A system as claimed in claim 81wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogen intoelectrical energy which is transmitted to one or more of said zones byan electrical energy transmission line.
 107. A system as claimed inclaim 81 wherein said hydrogen conversion apparatus converts hydrogeninto thermal energy which is transmitted to one or more of said zones bya thermal energy transmission conduit.
 108. A system as claimed in claim81 wherein said hydrogen generator is an electrolyser.
 109. A hydrogenenergy system for one or more buildings, said system comprising: (a) ahydrogen generator; (b) a hydrogen storage apparatus for storinghydrogen received from said hydrogen generator; (c) a electrical energyconversion apparatus for converting hydrogen received from said hydrogenstorage apparatus into electrical energy; (d) a thermal energyconversion apparatus for converting hydrogen received from said hydrogenstorage apparatus into thermal energy (e) an electrical energy conduitfor distributing electrical energy generated by said electrical energyconversion apparatus to one or more zones associated with said one ormore buildings; (f) a thermal energy conduit for distributing thermalenergy generated by said thermal energy conversion apparatus to one ormore zones associated with said one or more buildings; and (g) acontroller in communication with said hydrogen generator, saidelectrical energy conversion apparatus and said thermal energyconversion apparatus for controlling the generation and conversion ofhydrogen and the distribution of electrical energy and thermal energy tosaid one or more zones.
 110. A system as claimed in claim 109 whereinsaid electrical energy conversion device is a hydrogen powered internalcombustion engine.
 111. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein saidelectrical energy conversion device is a fuel cell.
 112. A system asclaimed in claim 109 wherein said thermal energy conversion device is aboiler.
 113. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said thermalenergy conversion device is a furnace.
 114. A system as claimed in claim109 further comprising a compressor for compressing hydrogen generatedby said hydrogen generator to a minimum desired pressure prior to beingreceived by said hydrogen storage apparatus.
 115. A system as claimed inclaim 109 wherein said hydrogen generator generates hydrogen at aminimum desired pressure.
 116. A system as claimed in claim 109 whereinsaid system provides electrical energy to a plurality of buildings. 117.A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said controller is incommunication with an energy network controller that controls a networkof energy sources each having energy source data associated therewith.118. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said controller alsoreceives and processes data pertaining to the source of energy for saidhydrogen generator in order to control the generation and conversion ofhydrogen.
 119. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said electricalenergy conversion device is adapted to generate and deliver electricalenergy to an electricity grid.
 120. A system as claimed in claim 109wherein said hydrogen generator is disposed remotely from said one ormore buildings.
 121. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein saidhydrogen generator is disposed proximate to said one or more buildings.122. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said hydrogen generator isdisposed within said one or more buildings.
 123. A system as claimed inclaim 109 wherein said hydrogen dispenser is disposed remotely from saidone or more buildings.
 124. A system as claimed in claim 109 whereinsaid hydrogen dispenser is disposed proximate to said one or morebuildings.
 125. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein said hydrogendispenser is disposed within said one or more buildings.
 126. A systemas claimed in claim 109 wherein said hydrogen storage apparatuscomprises at least one hydride storage chamber.
 127. A system as claimedin claim 109 wherein said hydrogen storage apparatus comprises at leastone container for storing pressurized hydrogen.
 128. A system as claimedin claim 109 further comprising a hydrogen dispenser for dispensinghydrogen to at least one hydrogen powered vehicle.
 129. A system asclaimed in claim 109 wherein at least one of said electrical energyconversion apparatus and said thermal energy conversion apparatus isdisposed remotely from one or more of said buildings.
 130. A system asclaimed in claim 109 wherein at least one of said electrical energyconversion apparatus and said thermal energy conversion apparatus isdisposed proximate to one or more of said buildings.
 131. A system asclaimed in claim 109 wherein at least one of said electrical energyconversion apparatus and said thermal energy conversion apparatus isdisposed within one or more of said buildings.
 132. A system as claimedin claim 109 wherein demands are transmitted wirelessly from said zonesto said controller.
 133. A system as claimed in claim 109 wherein saidhydrogen generator is an electrolyser.
 134. A hydrogen energy system forone or more buildings, said system comprising: (a) a plurality of zonecontrollers for receiving and transmitting demands for hydrogen for aplurality of zones associated with said one or more buildings; and (b)at least one unit controller for processing said demands for hydrogenreceived from said plurality of zone controllers and controlling thegeneration and distribution of hydrogen in accordance therewith.
 135. Asystem as claimed in claim 134 wherein said demands include demands forelectricity generated from said hydrogen.
 136. A system as claimed inclaim 134 wherein said demands include demands for heat generated fromsaid hydrogen.
 137. A system as claimed in claim 134 wherein said unitcontroller further controls a device for converting hydrogen intoelectrical energy.
 138. A system as claimed in claim 134 wherein saidunit controller further controls a device for converting hydrogen intothermal energy.
 139. A system as claimed in claim 137 wherein saidhydrogen conversion device is a hydrogen powered internal combustionengine.
 140. A system as claimed in claim 137 wherein said hydrogenconversion device is a fuel cell.
 141. A system as claimed in claim 138wherein said hydrogen conversion device is a boiler.
 142. A system asclaimed in claim 138 wherein said hydrogen conversion device is afurnace.
 143. A system as claimed in claim 134 wherein said systemprovides energy to a plurality of buildings.
 144. A system as claimed inclaim 143 wherein each of said buildings includes one of said unitcontrollers and at least one of said zone controllers.
 145. A system asclaimed in claim 144 further comprising a building network controllerfor receiving and processing hydrogen demand data from said unitcontrollers for each of said buildings.
 146. A system as claimed inclaim 145 wherein said building network controller controls thegeneration of hydrogen by said hydrogen generator and the supply ofhydrogen to at least one hydrogen conversion device for a plurality ofsaid buildings.
 147. A system as claimed in claim 145 wherein saidbuilding network controller is in communication with an energy networkcontroller that controls a network of energy sources each having energysource data associated therewith.
 148. A system as claimed in claim 145wherein said building network controller receives and processes energysource data in order to control the generation, storage and conversionof hydrogen to meet the demands for a plurality of said buildings. 149.A system as claimed in claim 134 wherein said unit controller alsoreceives and processes energy source data in order to control thegeneration, storage and conversion of hydrogen to meet the demands ofsaid one of more buildings.
 150. A system as claimed in claim 137wherein said hydrogen conversion device is adapted to deliver electricalenergy to an electricity grid.
 151. A system as claimed in claim 134wherein said unit controller further controls a hydrogen dispenser fordispensing hydrogen to at least one hydrogen powered vehicle.
 152. Asystem as claimed in claim 134 wherein said at least one zone controllerincludes a user activation interface for receiving data concerning ademand for hydrogen.
 153. A system as claimed in claim 151 wherein saidhydrogen dispenser includes a user activation interface for receivingdata concerning a demand for hydrogen.
 154. A system as claimed in claim134 wherein a plurality of said zone controllers are interconnected in anetwork, said network being operably connected to said unit controller.155. A system as claimed in claim 134 wherein said demands aretransmitted wirelessly from said at least one zone controller.
 156. Asystem as claimed in claim 134 wherein said hydrogen generator is anelectrolyser.